Friday, November 13, 2009

It might be that I've heard way too many Michael Jackson songs lately, but I really do feel like we're starting something here... Today was a poignant day for me. Prior to full admittance to the seminary, students have to pass qualifier exams in five subject areas: Old Testament, New Testament, Christian Doctrine, Greek, and Hebrew. Micah started that journey 15 months ago while we were still in Lincoln, and finished it today. It was the last day of the fall quarter here at the seminary. Micah sailed through his Hebrew qualifiers. I'm extremely proud of him for that, but I'm even prouder of him for the impact he had on others who were in a similar situation today. I'm not allowed to go into detail because it makes Micah embarrassed, but I, and many others, are blessed to have this man in our lives.

Micah will now spend the next two weeks hanging out with me and the kids, working around the house (which he actually enjoys), doing more with our field work church, and not studying. This Sunday, we're taking a day trip with friends to Hermann, MO to visit a church that has been very generous to both of our families. The following week, we'll head home to reconnect with friends and family that we haven't seen in a while. We'll be back just in time for Micah to start winter quarter, where he'll learn about Pastoral Ministry, Historical Theology, the Lutheran Mind, Hebrew Readings, and more Greek, just for fun.

As for the rest of us, we have good things going too. Even just today, I got a very flattering vote of confidence at work, Jonah got to take a field trip to the Science Center (his favorite place), and Joel and Maci's beloved daycare center received national recognition. The Lord continues to make details fall into place for us, with very little effort on our part.

So, for today, we're just thankful. For little blessings like a fire pit to share with neighbors in the back yard. For big blessings like support from friends and strangers alike. And, as always, for the promise that the Lord will never leave us nor forsake us. God is good, all the time.